cannon-ball

cannon-ball

A soldier loads a cannon-ball into the muzzle of a cannon.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Projectile for a cannon: A "cannon-ball" is a solid, heavy projectile, typically made of iron or stone, fired from a cannon. Historically, it was used in warfare before the advent of explosive shells.
    • A large, heavy object: By extension, "cannon-ball" can refer to any object that is large, round, and heavy, often used metaphorically.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The museum displayed an authentic cannon-ball from the 18th century. (A historical projectile fired from a cannon.)
    • He packed his bag with books until it felt like a cannon-ball. (A metaphor for something very heavy.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to go like a cannon-ball": to move extremely fast and forcefully.

    • The car went down the hill like a cannon-ball. (The car descended with great speed and force.)

  • "to drop like a cannon-ball": to fall heavily and suddenly.

    • The ripe fruit dropped like a cannon-ball from the tree. (The fruit fell straight down with a heavy impact.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Cannonball (n, alternative spelling): The same word, often written as one word without a hyphen.

    • The cannonball was too heavy to lift. (The projectile was extremely weighty.)

  • Cannonballer (n, rare): A person who fires a cannonball or is associated with cannonballs.

    • The cannonballer loaded the weapon with precision. (The person operating the cannon.)
Synonyms
  • Projectile: an object thrown or fired through the air.
  • Shot: a solid projectile for a cannon (often used interchangeably with "cannonball" in historical contexts).
  • Ball: a spherical object, especially a projectile.
Phrasal Verbs
  • Cannonball into: to fall or jump into something with great force.
    • He cannonballed into the pool, splashing everyone. (He jumped into the pool in a tight, ball-like posture.)
Related Idioms

  • "To be a cannonball": to be unstoppable or extremely energetic.

    • She was a cannonball in the race, leaving everyone behind. (She moved with unstoppable speed and power.)

  • "To take a cannonball": to endure a heavy blow or criticism.

    • The politician took a cannonball of criticism from the press. (He received a massive, damaging attack.)